P0323: Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit Intermittent

P0323 stands for a speed and reference signal at the ignition input – today the crankshaft position sensor – that drops out or is disturbed for moments and then recovers. None of the manufacturer documents available to us (GM 2014–2019, Ford 2012 and 2020–2023, Saab workshop information) uses P0323; the sporadic crank sensor check runs under P0339 at Ford and under P0336 at GM. Ford's logic shows what is evaluated: teeth missing or extra for a moment and the reference gap appearing at an unexpected position, after which the module briefly cuts fuel and spark and resynchronises. Typical causes are a loose contact, chafed wiring and electrical interference. The code itself is described only by its J2012 name and CARB's monitoring requirement for crank angle sensors.

Symptoms

• Brief stumbling or stalling, then normal again
• Sporadic misfire
• Tachometer flickers
• Check engine light on

Most likely causes

• Loose contact or corrosion at the sensor connector
• Chafed wiring, break under vibration
• Sensor dropping out when hot
• Interference from neighbouring wires

What to check, in order

Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.

1. Check the connector and wiring of the coil indicated
2. Gently move the wiring with the engine running and watch whether the reading changes.
3. Check the condition of the spark plug
4. Swap the coil with another cylinder and see if the code changes
5. Measure the power supply and control signal using the manufacturer's wiring diagram

Good to know

• Repair difficulty: medium
• It affects emissions.

What each character of P0323 means

• P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
• 0: Generic code: same on every make
• 3: Ignition and misfires
• 23: Specific fault in that system

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep driving with code P0323?

Drive as little as possible. If you feel jerking or the light flashes, stop: a misfire can damage the catalytic converter.

What causes code P0323?

The most common causes are: loose contact or corrosion at the sensor connector; chafed wiring, break under vibration; sensor dropping out when hot.

Related codes

• P0320Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit
• P0321Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit Range/Performance
• P0322Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit No Signal
• P0339Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent

Sources

• newtonnet.co.uk: fordobd2012
• fordservicecontent.com: OBD Operations Summary Gasoline 2020 2023
• law.cornell.edu: 13 CCR 1968.2

Values and procedures vary by manufacturer. If it affects brakes, steering, fuel or high voltage, see a professional. Updated: 2026-11-04. How we build these pages.